Natural areas in Monterey, California

Welcome to Huckleberry Hill Loop Trailhead, a serene and picturesque park nestled in the heart of Monterey, California. Located at 1200 Veterans Drive, our trailhead offers nature enthusiasts, hikers, and families a perfect escape into the tranquil beauty of the outdoors. Explore a diverse network of trails that meander through lush forests, vibrant wildflowers, and scenic vistas, providing an ideal setting for both leisurely strolls and invigorating hikes. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking to enjoy a peaceful walk, Huckleberry Hill Loop Trailhead offers something for everyone.

San Carlos Beach Park is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 100 Reeside Avenue in Monterey, California, United States. This beautiful park offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a great place to relax, swim, snorkel, or simply enjoy the sunshine. The park features a sandy beach, picnic areas, and convenient amenities such as restrooms and showers. Visitors can also explore the nearby tide pools and watch the local wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and families alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to unwind or an exciting place to explore the outdoors, San Carlos Beach Park has something for everyone.

Esplanade Park is a charming seaside park located at 120 Monterey Avenue in Capitola, California. This picturesque park is a popular tourist attraction, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Capitola Wharf. Visitors can relax on the grassy lawns, enjoy a picnic, or take a leisurely stroll along the scenic coastal pathways. With its vibrant atmosphere and prime location, Esplanade Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and beachgoers looking to unwind and soak up the beauty of the California coast.

Toro Park is a picturesque and expansive park located at 501 Monterey-Salinas Highway 68 in Salinas, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature, with rolling hills, scenic trails, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking to go for a hike, have a picnic, or simply relax in the great outdoors, Toro Park has something for everyone. With its convenient location and natural beauty, Toro Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of California's Central Coast.

Fremont Peak State Park, located at 10700 San Juan Canyon Road in San Juan Bautista, California, is a popular tourist attraction known for its breathtaking views of Monterey Bay and the surrounding valleys and mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails through the park's grasslands, pine and oak woodlands, and even take advantage of camping and picnic facilities. The park also features an astronomical observatory with a 30-inch telescope, offering public programs on selected evenings. For those interested in camping or lodging at the park, reservations can be made up to six months in advance, subject to availability and maximum stay rules. Wood and charcoal fires are allowed in designated fire rings, but visitors must bring their own wood as collecting materials from the park is prohibited. Fires must be monitored at all times, and citations will be issued for violations.

Fort Ord Dunes State Park, located in Marina, California, United States, is a popular tourist attraction opened to the public in 2009. Covering nearly 1,000 acres of public land, the park offers 4 miles of ocean beach with stunning views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Visitors can explore the dunes and beaches, home to many endangered species, while staying on designated trails to protect the sensitive habitats. Dogs are allowed on the recreation trail that runs through the park, but not on spur trails to the beach or on the beach itself. At the main parking area, visitors can learn about the former Fort Ord US Army Base and the natural history of the park through educational panels. Additionally, a mobile phone audio tour is available for those interested in the cultural and natural features of Fort Ord. Public access is limited to designated roads and trails open to bicyclists, hikers, and dogs on leash.

Ryan Ranch Disc Golf Course is a premier disc golf destination located at 10 Park Road in Monterey, California. This scenic course offers a challenging and fun experience for disc golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. With a mix of open fields and wooded areas, players can test their accuracy and distance on a variety of holes. The course is well-maintained and features beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the game or a seasoned pro looking for a new challenge, Ryan Ranch Disc Golf Course is the perfect place to enjoy a day out on the course.

Green Garden, located at 1859 Potrero Grande Drive in Monterey Park, California, is a charming florist and store offering the best and freshest flowers in the area. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just want to brighten someone's day, Green Garden Place has a wide selection of beautiful flower arrangements to choose from. Only three add-on items can be selected at a time, so be sure to make your choices carefully. Trust Green Garden Place for hand-arranged fresh flower delivery in Monterey Park, CA today!

Marina State Beach is a popular tourist attraction located at 200 Reservation Road in Marina, California, United States. This beach winds through the Marina Dunes Natural Preserves, offering stunning panoramic views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. It is a hotspot for hang-gliding, radio-controlled gliders, and kites. Visitors can enjoy picnics and take in the beautiful scenery. However, water recreation is not recommended due to strong rip currents. The weather can be changeable, so layered clothing is advised. Dogs are not allowed at this location, but are permitted at other nearby beaches. The Marine Protected Areas Coloring Book is available for students to learn about the diverse plant and animal life in California's MPAs. Download the coloring book and the California Coastal Explorer Guide for more information. Please note that online reservations are not available for this park.

Palm Beach State Park, located at 2660 Beach Road in Watsonville, California, offers visitors the opportunity to reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance. California State Parks Backpacking Adventures also offers naturalist-led backpacking trips through the Santa Cruz Mountains each summer. Sunset State Beach, within the park, features a peaceful campground under the pines, picnicking on the beach, and stunning views of Monterey Bay. A $10 vehicle day-use fee applies, with additional fees for bus parking. Alcohol is not permitted on the beach or in the day-use area, and dogs are not allowed on Sunset State Beach except for service animals. Drones are also prohibited in the park to protect wildlife and cultural resources. Visitors can arrange interpretive talks or guided experiences for organized community groups. Join the mailing list to stay updated on events and activities at the park. Funds to support educational programs and projects at the park are provided by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks.

Andrew Molera State Park is a stunning natural oasis located in Big Sur, California. This park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the opportunity to explore miles of trails that wind through meadows, bluffs, beaches, and hilltops. With panoramic views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, guests can enjoy hiking, beachcombing, and wildlife spotting in this relatively undeveloped park. Visitors have the option to reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable stay. Please note that the Trailcamp at Andrew Molera State Park is closed for the season until June - campgrounds can be reserved through www.ReserveCalifornia.com. Be aware that after heavy rainfall, the Big Sur River may be impassable due to high water levels.

Sister City Park is a charming and picturesque park located along the stunning Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail in Monterey, California. This park serves as a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a peaceful and scenic retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, serene atmosphere, and beautiful ocean views, Sister City Park is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the natural beauty of the California coast. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply soak in the breathtaking surroundings, Sister City Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Bird Rock Vista Point is a stunning tourist attraction located on Bird Rock Road in Del Monte Forest, California, United States. This picturesque vista point offers visitors breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the majestic Pacific Ocean. The sound of crashing waves and the sight of seabirds soaring overhead create a peaceful and serene atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to relax and take in the beauty of nature. Whether you're a nature lover, a photographer, or simply looking for a tranquil escape, Bird Rock Vista Point is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the California coast.

Eolian Dunes Preserve is a park located on the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail in Sand City, California, United States. This District open space has a rich history dating back to the Depression era, when it was used as a burn dump and later converted into a landfill. After years of being abandoned, the Park District acquired the property in 1995 and conducted remediation work to restore the area to its natural state. The park now offers visitors the opportunity to explore native coastal dune habitat and enjoy stunning views of the bay. The property was renamed Eolian Dunes Preserve in 2007, paying homage to the wind-swept dunes that define the landscape. Visitors are encouraged to stay on designated trails, take only memories, and leave only footprints.

Welcome to Rio Del Mar Beach, a stunning natural feature located in the picturesque community of Rio del Mar, California. Nestled along the beautiful Monterey Bay, our beach offers a serene escape for visitors seeking relaxation and adventure. With its golden sands and gentle waves, Rio Del Mar Beach is perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, or dive into the refreshing waters for a swim. The beach is also a popular spot for fishing and birdwatching, offering breathtaking views of local wildlife and the surrounding coastal landscape. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the area, Rio Del Mar Beach promises a memorable experience for all ages. Come and discover the natural beauty and tranquility of this coastal gem.

Welcome to Palo Corona Regional Park, one of Central Coast California's most significant undeveloped open spaces, located at 4860 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. This stunning park, nestled in the heart of nature, stretches over 4,500 acres and offers a unique blend of ecosystems and wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Palo Corona Regional Park is the result of the largest land conservation project in Monterey County history. Established through a partnership between The Nature Conservancy, The Big Sur Land Trust, State of California agencies, and the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District, the park is a testament to successful conservation efforts. With its acquisition finalized in 2004, this park serves as a critical environmental link in a protected seventy-mile wild land corridor, offering refuge to an extraordinary array of flora and fauna.

Welcome to Sunset State Beach, a stunning natural feature nestled along the beautiful coastline of Watsonville, California. Located at Sunset Beach Road, Watsonville, CA 95076, this serene destination is part of the California State Parks system and offers visitors breathtaking views, pristine sandy beaches, and a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Sunset State Beach is a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to relax in nature's embrace. Stretching along the picturesque Monterey Bay, the beach provides ample opportunities for sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing. The gentle waves and expansive shoreline invite you to take long, leisurely walks or simply unwind while listening to the soothing sound of the ocean.

Montecito Park is a charming and picturesque park located at 220 Montecito Avenue in Monterey, California. This hidden gem is a popular tourist attraction, offering stunning views of the surrounding area and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the well-maintained pathways, relax on the lush green lawns, or have a picnic with family and friends. With its beautiful landscaping and tranquil atmosphere, Montecito Park is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature in the heart of Monterey.

Royal Oaks Park is a stunning tourist attraction located at 537 Maher Road in Watsonville, California. This sprawling park offers a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, winding walking paths, and scenic picnic areas, Royal Oaks Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and serenity of Royal Oaks Park today.

Manzanita County Park is a picturesque park located at 17100 Castroville Boulevard in Prunedale, California. This beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a peaceful escape into nature. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and stunning views, Manzanita County Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply enjoy the serenity of the great outdoors, this park has something for everyone. Come visit Manzanita County Park and experience the natural beauty of California's Central Coast.

The Frog Pond Wetland Preserve is a stunning 17-acre park located in Del Rey Oaks, California. This preserve is a refuge for resident and migratory wildlife, as well as humans seeking a peaceful escape in nature. The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including frogs, deer, hummingbirds, and more. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, nature study, and recreation in this beautiful habitat, surrounded by Coast Live Oak, Arroyo Willow, and Monterey Pine trees. The preserve offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and learn about the importance of wetland ecosystems.

Seascape Beach Resort is a luxurious lodging institution located at 1 Seascape Resort Drive in Aptos, California, United States. Wake up to breathtaking coastal views overlooking Monterey Bay and enjoy a laid-back family vacation surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Guests can unwind in three outdoor pools with spas just steps away from the beach or challenge themselves on the championship golf course. The resort offers spacious two-bedroom/two-bathroom villas that provide all the comforts of a private beach home with top-notch amenities. Guests can take advantage of special offers such as discounts on stays, dining credits, and even a free night with a minimum stay.

Sunnyside Conservatory is a charming and historic park located in San Francisco, California. Situated at 236 Monterey Boulevard, this hidden gem offers visitors a peaceful escape from the bustling city life. The conservatory features lush gardens, beautiful flowers, and a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation and contemplation. Whether you are a nature enthusiast or just looking for a tranquil spot to unwind, Sunnyside Conservatory is a must-visit tourist attraction in San Francisco. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this enchanting park and experience a slice of paradise in the heart of the city.

Pebble Beach Equestrian Center is a premier travel agency located in the picturesque Del Monte Forest of California, United States. Situated at 3300 Portola Road, this institution offers unforgettable equestrian experiences for visitors looking to explore the stunning natural beauty of the area on horseback. With expert guides and well-trained horses, Pebble Beach Equestrian Center provides a unique and immersive way to discover the charm and tranquility of the surrounding landscapes. Whether you are a seasoned rider or a beginner, this center caters to all levels of experience, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable adventure for all.

Devendorf Park is a charming oasis located in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Situated at the corner of 6th and Mission Street, this tranquil park offers a peaceful retreat for visitors and locals alike. With its lush greenery, beautiful flowers, and inviting benches, Devendorf Park is the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to read a book, have a picnic with friends, or simply take a leisurely stroll, this park provides a serene setting for all to enjoy. Come visit Devendorf Park and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

River Oaks Park is a charming and picturesque park located at 12608 Monterey Beach Drive in Bakersfield, California. This park is a popular tourist attraction known for its beautiful scenery and serene atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the river, have a picnic on the lush green lawns, or simply relax and take in the stunning views. With its well-maintained walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas, River Oaks Park is the perfect destination for a day of outdoor fun and relaxation.

Welcome to Friendly Plaza, a charming oasis nestled in the heart of Monterey, California. Located at 534 Pacific Street, this delightful park and tourist attraction offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and community spirit. Friendly Plaza is an inviting space where visitors can unwind amidst lush greenery, enjoy a leisurely stroll, or simply soak up the serene atmosphere. Whether you're a local resident or a traveler exploring the scenic wonders of Monterey, Friendly Plaza is an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation. Discover the vibrant flora, enjoy a picnic with family and friends, or partake in one of the many community events hosted throughout the year. With its welcoming ambiance and picturesque setting, Friendly Plaza is more than just a park—it's a place where memories are made. Come visit us and experience the warmth and charm that define Friendly Plaza.

Welcome to Ft Ord Beach, a breathtaking natural feature located on Beach Range Road in Seaside, California. Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Monterey Bay, Ft Ord Beach offers a serene escape for nature enthusiasts, beachgoers, and adventure seekers alike. With its pristine sandy shores, rolling dunes, and captivating ocean views, this local gem provides the perfect setting for a day of relaxation or exploration. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll along the water's edge, enjoy a peaceful picnic with family and friends, or simply bask in the sun, Ft Ord Beach caters to all your desires. The beach is also a popular spot for birdwatching, photography, and discovering the rich marine life that inhabits the area.

Welcome to The Crocker Cypress Grove, a breathtaking tourist attraction nestled along the scenic 17 Mile Drive in Del Monte Forest, California. Located at 3158 17 Mile Drive, our grove offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of one of the most picturesque coastal forests in the United States. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of ancient cypress trees, some of which are hundreds of years old, as you wander through our well-maintained trails. The grove provides a perfect setting for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Enjoy the fresh ocean breeze and the soothing sound of the Pacific waves as you explore this serene haven.

Welcome to Campground | New Brighton State Beach, a serene escape nestled in the charming town of Capitola, just south of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 1500 Park Avenue, our campground offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. New Brighton State Beach boasts stunning coastal bluffs, picturesque views of Monterey Bay, and a sandy shoreline perfect for fishing, beachcombing, and swimming during warmer months. Our forested bluffs provide ample opportunities for hiking and exploring, while our well-maintained campground offers over 100 campsites, including 11 RV hookup sites, ensuring a comfortable stay for both tent and RV campers.